A bill introduced to Ohio Senate last month would prohibit Ohio public schools from opening prior to Labor Day and force local school districts to delay the start of the school year.
All five school districts in Athens County begin classes before Labor Day.
The proposed bill would be effective for the 2007-2008 school year, Sen. Joy Padgett, R- Coshocton said, adding that the sponsor is willing to delay the bill for one year while additional changes are discussed and made.
Local superintendents saw no logic in the proposed change and were vehemently in opposition to the bill, Padgett said after speaking with superintendents in her constituency, which includes Athens County.
Padgett said ultimately she favors an earlier start and end to the school year.
The late start would prompt many schools to let out for summer vacation later, a change that would lead to several problems for educators and students alike, said Superintendent Carl Martin of the Athens City School District.
Martin worries the delayed start would have a negative effect on summer school programs as well as on teachers wishing to take graduate school classes, which typically begin in mid- to late June.
A delayed start might provide more time for vacationing but would rush preparation time for achievement tests, Padgett said.
Trimble Local School District Superintendent Cindy Johnston questioned the effect the bill could have on the academic preparation for statewide and nationwide tests.
Two-and-a-half to three weeks could make a difference by giving students more time to prepare, Johnston said.
Academics aside, the bill might also affect fall athletics, which often begin in late August.
With local high school sports commencing before Labor Day, Johnston, Martin and Padgett noted that the proposed delayed start would have a negative effect preparation for athletic events.
The bill will likely not be voted on for some time, said Padgett.
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